DE112005001217T5 - Method and system for battery charging - Google Patents

Abstract

Combination comprising:
a battery that contains:
a first battery connection,
a second battery connection,
a battery cell having a current state of charge, wherein the battery cell is coupled to the first battery terminal and / or the second battery terminal;
a battery microcontroller coupled to the first battery terminal and / or the second battery terminal, the microcontroller operable to measure the present state of charge of the battery cell to produce measurements of the present state of charge of the battery cell; and
a battery charger operable to supply a charging current to the battery pack, the battery charger including:
a first charger port configured to be coupled to the first battery port and / or the second battery port, wherein the first charger port is configured to supply charging current to the battery pack;
a second charger port configured to be coupled to the first battery port and / or the second battery port, and
a loader microcontroller coupled to the second charger port ...

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The This patent application claims the advantages of the earlier filed, co-pending, Provisional US Patent Application, Serial no. 60 / 574,278, issued on May 24, 2004; Serial no. 60 / 574,616, the 25. Filed in May 2004; Serial no. 60 / 582,138, the 22nd of June Filed in 2004; Serial no. 60 / 582,729, which was issued on June 24, 2004 was submitted; Serial no. 60 / 582,730, filed June 24 2004; Serial no. 60 / 612,352, filed September 22, 2004; Serial no. 60 / 626,013 filed on Nov. 5, 2004; Serial no. 60 / 626,230, filed November 9, 2004; and serial no. 60 / 643.396, filed on January 12, 2005, the entire contents of this Applications are incorporated herein by reference.

The The present application also relates to the US patent application the serial no. 10 / 720,027 filed November 20, 2003 was and the advantage of the earlier submitted, co-pending US provisional patent application serial no. 60 / 428,358, filed on November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428,450, filed on 22. November 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428,452, filed November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 440.692, filed January 17, 2003; Serial no. 60 / 440,693, filed on January 17, 2003; Serial no. 60 / 523,716 filed Nov. 19 2003; and serial no. 60 / 523,712, filed on November 19, 2003, The entire contents of these applications are hereby incorporated by reference be incorporated by reference.

The The present application also relates to the US patent application the serial no. 10 / 719,680 filed November 20, 2003 which took advantage of the previously filed, co-pending, Provisional US patent applications Serial no. 60 / 428,358, filed November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428,450, filed November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428.452, filed on 22 November 2002; Serial no. 60 / 440,692, filed on January 17, 2003; Serial no. 60 / 440,693, filed January 17 2003; Serial no. 60 / 523,716 filed Nov. 19, 2003; and Serial no. 60 / 523,712, filed on November 19, 2003, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The This patent application also relates to the US patent application with the serial no. 10 / 721,800, filed November 24, 2003, the benefit of the sooner submitted, co-pending US provisional patent application serial no. 60 / 428,356, filed on November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428.358, filed on 22 November 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428,450, filed on November 22, 2002; Serial no. 60 / 428,452, filed on 22. November 2002; Serial no. 60 / 440,692, filed January 17, 2003; Serial no. 60 / 440,693, filed January 17, 2003; Serial no. 60 / 523,712, filed November 19, 2003; and serial no. 60 / 523.716, filed on 19 November 2003; claims its entire contents incorporated herein by reference.

AREA OF INVENTION

The The present invention relates generally to a method and system for battery charging and more specifically a method and system for charging a power tool battery.

BACKGROUND THE INVENTION

Wireless Power tools are typically powered by portable batteries or Supplied batteries. These accumulators can be different in the Battery chemistry and nominal voltage can be and used Be to different tools and electrical devices to supply. Typically, the accumulator chemistry of a power tool battery either nickel-cadmium ("NiCd") or nickel-metal hydride ("NiMH"). The nominal voltage of the accumulator is enough for usually of about 2.4V to about 24 V.

OVERVIEW OF THE INVENTION

Some battery chemistries (for example, lithium ("Li"), lithium-ion ("Li-ion") and other chemistries require precise charging and discharging control operations.) Insufficient charging and uncontrolled discharging can cause overheating, excessive overcharging, and so on / or create overly overcharged states These states and developments may cause an irreversible cause damage to the batteries and can seriously affect battery

The The present invention provides a system and method for loading a battery ready. In some constructions and in some Aspects, the invention provides a battery charger, the various batteries or fully charge battery units with different battery chemistry can. In some constructions and in some aspects, the invention provides a battery charger that is fully lithium-based, for example, lithium-cobalt batteries, lithium-manganese batteries and spinel batteries. In some constructions and in In some aspects, the invention provides a battery charger, lithium-based batteries with different nominal voltages or load in different nominal voltage ranges. In some constructions and in some aspects, the invention a battery charger ready that has various charging modules that are implemented on the basis of different battery conditions imp. In some constructions and in some aspects represents the invention a method and system for charging a lithium-based battery by applying pulses or pulses with a constant current ready. The time between pulses and the length of the pulses may depend on the battery charger depending on certain battery characteristics elevated or be made smaller.

In In one construction, the invention provides a combination that includes a Battery or a battery unit and a battery charger contains the can be operated so that it supplies the battery with a charging current. Of the Battery contains a first battery terminal, a second battery terminal and a battery cell having a current state of charge. The Battery cell is connected to the first battery connection and / or the second Battery connection coupled. The battery also contains a battery microcontroller, the one with the first battery terminal and / or the second battery terminal is coupled. The microcontroller or the microcontroller works such that they reflect the present Charge state of the battery cell measures measurements or readings of the present Charge state of the battery cell to produce. The battery charger contains one first charger port, which is constructed so that it with the first battery terminal and / or the second battery terminal coupled and a second charger port, which is constructed such that it is connected to the first battery connection and / or the second battery connection coupled. The first charger port is constructed such that it Charging current to the battery feeds. The battery charger contains Also, a loader microcontroller or a microcontroller, the is coupled to the second charger port and work in such a way that he can take measurements of the current state of charge of the battery cell from the battery microcontroller. The loader microcontroller is also operable so that they charge current to the battery in pulses or Supplying pulses, wherein each pulse is a first time interval, in the charging current of Battery supplied is included, and a second time interval, in the charging current of the Battery is interrupted. The microcontroller is still such operable to be the first time interval of a pulse at least partly based on instantaneous state of charge measurements the battery cell that the battery microcontroller may modify to be received from.

In In a further construction, the invention provides a method of pulse charging or pulse charging with a battery having a plurality of battery cells ready. The procedure contains measuring a state of charge of each battery cell in the plurality of battery cells and the application of a first pulse with charging current to the battery. The first pulse has a first time interval, in the charging current of the battery is supplied, and a second time interval, in which the feeder the charging current to the battery is interrupted. The procedure also contains the application of a second pulse with charging current to the battery. The second pulse has a third time interval in which the charging current supplied to the battery and a fourth time interval in which the delivery of the Charging current to the battery is interrupted. The third time interval is based at least partially on the state of charge of a battery cell and the third time interval is less than the first time interval.

In In a further construction, the invention provides a battery charger, which is operable to supply a charging current to a battery which has a battery cell with a predetermined state of charge, and a Battery microcontroller that is operable, the current state of charge to measure the battery cell. The battery charger contains one Loader microcontroller that is operable, the current state of charge receive the battery cell from the battery microcontroller. The loader microcontroller is also operable to charge the charging current To supply battery in pulses, wherein each pulse or a first time interval and a second Contains time interval. The first time interval is an interval in which a charging current the battery is supplied, and the second time interval is an interval in which the supply of the Charging current to the battery is interrupted. The microcontroller is further operable to be the first time interval a pulse at least partially depending on the current one State of charge of the battery cell modified by the battery microcontroller is received from.

Independent features and independent advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art in the following detailed description, claims and drawings.

SUMMARY THE DRAWINGS

1 is a perspective view of a battery;

2 FIG. 13 is another perspective view of a battery, for example, the battery included in FIG 1 is shown;

3 is a perspective view of a battery, for example, the battery, which in 1 is shown and which is electrically and physically connected to a battery charger;

4 is a schematic view of a battery that is electrically connected to a battery charger, such as the battery and the battery charger, in 3 is shown connected;

5a and 5b FIG. 10 are flowcharts showing the operation of a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, such as the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

6 FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a first module that may be implemented in a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

7 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a second module that may implement a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

8th FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a third module that may be implemented in a battery charger that may embody the aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

9 FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a fourth module that may be implemented in a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

10 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a fifth module that may be implemented in a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

11 FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a sixth module that may be implemented in a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

12 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a charging algorithm that may be implemented in a battery charger embodying aspects of the invention, for example, the battery charger incorporated in FIG 3 is shown;

13 Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of a battery electrically connected to a battery charger;

14A -B are views of other constructions of a battery;

15A -B are perspective views of a battery, for example, one of the batteries that are in 1 . 2 and 14A B, which is electrically and physically connected to a power tool;

16 is a schematic view of a charging current for a battery;

17 is another schematic diagram of a battery;

18 is a perspective view of an inverter, which is connected to a battery charger;

19 is a planar view of an inverter, for example the inverter in 18 which is connected to the battery charger;

20 is a side view of an inverter, for example, the inverter of 18 which is connected to the battery charger;

21 is an upper view of an inverter, for example the inverter in 18 which is connected to the battery charger;

22 is another side view of an inverter, for example, the inverter in 18 which is connected to a battery charger;

23 is a rear view of an inverter, for example the inverter of the inverter 18 which is connected to a battery charger;

24 is another perspective view of an inverter, for example, the inverter of 18 which is connected to a battery charger;

25 is yet another perspective view of an inverter, for example an inverter of 18 which is connected to a battery charger;

26 is yet another perspective view of an inverter, for example an inverter of 18 which is connected to a Bat terielader;

27 is yet another perspective view of an inverter, for example, an inverter of 18 which is connected to a battery charger;

28 FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a module of a battery charging operation; FIG.

29 and 30 FIGURES are flowcharts showing another module of a battery charging operation;

31 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

32 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

33 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

34 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

35 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

36 Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing still another module of a battery charging operation;

37 and 38 FIGURES are flowcharts showing yet another module of a battery charging operation;

39 is a schematic view of a charging current for a battery.

Before embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components illustrated in the following description or shown in the following drawings. The invention may be embodied in other forms and practiced and embodied in various ways. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are used for purposes of description and should not be considered as limiting. The use of "contain,""have," or "have," and variations thereof are meant herein to include the items listed thereafter, and equivalents thereof, and also include additional items.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A rechargeable battery or a battery 20 is in 1 and 2 shown. The battery 20 is for transmitting power to one or more electrical devices and receiving power from one or more electrical devices, such as a power tool 25 (shown in 15A -B) and / or a battery charger 30 (ge shows in 3 and 4 ), built up. In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery can 20 have any battery chemistry, for example, a lead acid, nickel-cadmium ("NiCd"), nickel-metal hydride ("NiMH"), lithium ("Li"), lithium-ion ("Li-ion") and another Lithium-based chemistry or another chemistry for rechargeable batteries. In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery can 20 supplying a high discharge current to electrical devices, such as a power tool, that have high current discharge rates. In the illustrated constructions the battery has 20 a battery chemistry with Li, Li-ion, or other Li-based chemistry, and results in an average discharge current equal to or greater than about 20A. For example, in the illustrated construction of the battery 20 have a lithium-cobalt ("Li-Co"), lithium-manganese ("Li-Mn"), spinel or Li-Mn-nickel chemistry.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery can 20 also have any nominal voltage, for example a nominal voltage ranging from about 9.6V to about 50V. In a construction (cf. 1 - 3 ) has the battery 20 for example, a nominal voltage of about 21 V. In a further construction (cf. 14 ), the battery 20 A has a nominal voltage of about 28 V. It should be understood that in other constructions the battery 20 may have a different nominal voltage in another nominal voltage range.

The battery 20 contains a housing 35 , the connection devices 40 provides. The battery 20 Also includes a battery connector or a plurality of battery terminals through the connection means 40 be supported and connectable to an electrical device, for example with a power tool 25 and / or with the battery charger 30 , In some constructions, for example, the construction in 4 shown contains the battery 20 a positive battery connection 45 , a negative battery connection 50 and a sensor battery connection 55 , In some constructions, the battery contains 20 more or less terminals than in the embodiment shown.

The battery 20 contains one battery cell or several battery cells 60 each having a chemistry and a nominal voltage. In some constructions the battery has 20 a battery chemistry with Li-Ion, a nominal voltage of about 18 V or 21 V and contains five battery cells. In some constructions, each battery cell has 60 a chemistry with Li-ion and every battery cell 60 has substantially the same nominal voltage, for example about 3.6V or about 4.2V.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery contains 20 an identification circuit or identification component electrically connected to one or more battery terminals. In some constructions, an electrical device, for example, a battery charger 30 (in 3 and 4 shown) the identification circuit or identification component "read" and / or received an input on the basis of the identification circuit or identification component to determine a battery characteristic or multiple battery properties. For example, in some constructions, the battery characteristics may be the nominal voltage of the battery 20 , the temperature of the battery 20 and / or the chemistry of the battery 20 contain.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery contains 20 a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or a controller electrically connected to one or more battery terminals. The control unit or the controller communicates with the electrical devices, for example with a battery charger 30 , and provides information to the devices regarding one or more battery characteristics or conditions, for example, the nominal voltage of the battery 20 , the individual cell voltages, the temperature of the battery 20 and / or the chemistry of the battery 20 , In some constructions, for example the construction, which in 4 shown contains the battery 20 an identification circuit 62 containing a microprocessor or controller 64 Has.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery contains 20 a temperature sensing device or a thermistor. The thermistor is constructed and inside the battery 20 arranged to be a temperature of a battery cell or a plurality of battery cells or a Tempe temperature of the battery 20 as a whole senses or feels. In some constructions, for example the construction, which in 4 shown contains the battery 20 a thermistor 66 , In the illustrated construction, the thermistor 66 in the identification circuit 62 contain.

As in 3 and 4 shown is the battery 20 also constructed such that it is connected to an electrical device, for example a battery charger 30 , connects. In some constructions, the battery charger contains 30 a housing 70 , The housing 70 represents a connection section 75 ready with the battery 20 connected is. The connecting section 75 includes a device connection or multiple electrical device connections to the battery 20 with the battery charger 30 electrically connect. The connections in the battery charger 30 are included, so that they are connected to the terminals in the battery 20 are included, and power and / or energy and information transmitted and transmitted by the battery 20 receive.

In some constructions, for example the construction, which in 4 is shown contains the battery charger 30 a positive connection 80 , a negative connection 85 and a sensing connection 90 , In some constructions the positive connection is 80 of the battery charger 30 designed so that it leads to the positive battery connection 45 fits. In some constructions are the negative connection 85 and the sensing connection 90 of the battery charger 30 designed to connect to the negative battery connection 50 or the sensor battery connection 55 fit.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger contains 30 a charging circuit 95 , In some constructions, the charging circuit contains 95 a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor or a controller 100 or controller. The control unit 100 controls the transfer of electricity or energy between the battery 20 and the battery charger 30 , In some constructions, the control unit controls 100 the transmission of information between the battery 20 and the battery charger 30 , In some constructions, the control unit identifies and / or determines 100 a property or condition or multiple properties or states of the battery 20 based on signals from the battery 20 receives. The control unit 100 can the operation of the charger 30 also on the basis of the identification characteristics of the battery 20 Taxes.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the control unit includes various timers, back-up timers and counters, and / or may perform various timings and counting functions. The timers, auxiliary timers and counters are provided by the control unit 100 used and controlled during various charging steps and / or modules. The timers, auxiliary timers and counters are explained below.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger contains 30 an ad or an indicator 110 , The scoreboard 110 informs a user about the condition of the battery charger 30 , In some constructions, the indicator 110 inform the user of different charge levels of charge, charge modes, or charge modules that begin and / or have been completed during operation. In some constructions, the indicator contains 110 a first light emitting diode ("LED") 115 and a second LED 120 , In the illustrated construction, the first LED 115 and the second LED 120 LEDs with different colors. For example, the first LED 115 a red LED and the second LED 120 is a green LED. In some constructions, the control unit activates 100 the scoreboard 110 and controls him. In some constructions, the indicator is 110 on the housing 70 arranged or in the housing 70 such that the indicator 110 or the ad is visible to the user. The display may also include an indicator showing the percentage charged, the time remaining, and so on. In some constructions, the display or indicator may 110 the charge indicator attached to the battery 20 is included.

The battery charger 30 is designed to be an input of the current from a supply source 130 to recieve. In some constructions, the source of supply is 130 about a 120 V AC, 60 Hz signal. In other constructions, the source of supply is 130 about a 240V AC signal. In other constructions, the source of supply is 130 for example, a constant current source. In these constructions, the sources of supply 130 include a 12V DC signal, for example, a DC signal received from a vehicle connector (eg, a vehicle battery).

In the constructions shown, the battery charger receives 30 the input of energy or current from an AC source. For use with a DC power source, a user may charge the battery charger 30 with an inverter 2140 who in 18 - 27 shown, connect. In these designs, the inverter converts 2140 a first signal, for example a DC signal (eg a 12V DC signal from a vehicle DC output) into a second signal, for example, an AC signal (eg, a 120V AC signal).

As in 18 - 26 is shown contains the inverter 2140 a housing 2145 , In this illustrated construction, the housing contains 2145 a first end 2146 , a second end 2147 , a first page 2148 and a second page 2149 , The housing 2145 also contains a floor area 2152 and an upper surface 2154 , In other constructions, the housing 2145 more or fewer surfaces, sides and ends than shown and described.

In a construction, the upper surface 2154 an area for attaching and arranging the battery charger 30 provide. In the illustrated construction, the upper surface has 2154 essentially the same width or width and length of a battery charger 30 , In other constructions, the upper surface 2154 greater or smaller than the width and length of the battery charger 30 be. In other constructions, the upper surface 2154 a locking mechanism (not shown) to the battery charger 30 at the inverter 2140 to secure. In yet other constructions may be another section of the housing 2145 a locking mechanism for securing the battery charger 30 at the inverter 2140 contain.

The inverter 2140 also contains an entrance 2159 receiving the first current signal (ie, the DC signal). In some constructions, the entrance contains 2159 a cable 2160 and an input connector 2165 , In the illustrated constructions, the input connector includes 2165 a 12V DC input connector for receiving a DC signal from a vehicle DC output.

The inverter 2140 also contains a change output 2170 to provide the second current signal (ie, the AC signal). In the illustrated constructions, the conversion output contains 2170 an AC output, for example, a three-pole straight pin output 2170 , As in 18 shown is the output 2170 on a cable rewind 2155 arranged.

In some constructions, the inverter can 2140 a cable rewind 2155 contain. The cable winder 2155 can the cable 2156 of the battery charger 30 record and secure. In the illustrated constructions forms a groove 2158 in the second end 2147 of the housing 2145 the cable rewind 2155 ,

In some constructions, the inverter can 2140 a second exit 2180 contain. In the illustrated construction, the second exit is 2180 at the first end 2146 of the housing 2145 arranged and operable to provide the second (converted) current signal. In other constructions, the output can 2180 output the first current signal (ie, the DC signal). In other constructions, the inverter 2140 additional outputs 2180 containing the first current signal or the second current signal. In still other constructions, the inverter can 2140 a combination of second outputs 2180 at least one providing the first current signal and at least one further providing the second current signal.

In some constructions, the inverter can 2140 a switch 2185 contain the output of the current through the conversion output 2170 controls. The desk 2185 can be an on position in which the inverter 2140 is so operable that it is current through the conversion output 2170 (if the inverter 2140 receiving a first current signal) and an off position in which the inverter 2140 is not so operable that it is current through the conversion output 2170 emits. The positions of the switch 2185 can be given to the user by one LED or multiple LEDs, for example by the first LED 2188 and the second LED 2189 , in the 23 - 26 shown are displayed. In the illustrated constructions are the first LED 2188 and the second LED 2189 at the first end 2146 of the housing 2145 arranged. In one construction is the LED 2188 a red LED and indicates that the inverter 2140 is not operable, the current through the conversion output 2170 to feed, and the second LED 2189 is a green LED and indicates that the inverter 2140 is so operable that it is current through the conversion output 2170 supplies. In other constructions, the switch can 2185 the output of the second output 2180 Taxes. In still other constructions, the inverter contains 2140 a switch 2185 for each outlet or outlet 2170 . 2180 ,

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger may 30 load different, rechargeable or rechargeable batteries that have a different battery chemistry and different Nomi nalspannungen have, as will be described below. For example, in an exemplary implementation, the battery charger 30 a first battery having a battery chemistry with NiCd and a nominal voltage of about 14.4 V, a second battery having a battery chemistry with Li-ion and a nominal voltage of about 18 V, and a third battery charging a battery chemistry Li-ion and a nominal voltage of about 28V has. In another exemplary implementation, the battery charger 30 Charge a first Li-Ion battery with a nominal voltage of approximately 21V and a second Li-Ion battery with a nominal voltage of approximately 28V. In this exemplary implementation, the battery charger 30 the nominal voltages of each battery 20 and either indicate certain thresholds accordingly, as discussed below, or modify voltage readings or measurements (taken during charging) according to the battery nominal voltage.

In some constructions, the battery charger can 30 the nominal voltage of a battery 20 by "reading" an identification component in the battery 20 or by receiving a signal from, for example, a battery microprocessor or battery controller. In some constructions, the battery charger can 30 a range of acceptable nominal voltages for different batteries 20 that the loader 30 can identify. In some constructions, the range of acceptable nominal voltages may include a range of about 8V to about 50V. In other constructions, the range of acceptable nominal voltages may include a range of about 12V to about 28V. In other constructions, the battery charger 30 Nominal voltages equal to 12 V and greater, identify. In other constructions, the battery charger 30 also nominal voltages, which are about 30 V and lower identify.

In other constructions, the battery charger 30 identify a range of values that are the nominal voltage of the battery 20 contain. For example, the battery charger 30 identify that the nominal voltage of the first battery 20 falls within the range of about 18V to about 22V or from about 16V to about 24V, but can not identify a first battery 20 has a nominal voltage of about 18V. In other constructions, the battery charger 30 also identify other battery characteristics, such as the number of battery cells, battery chemistry, and the like.

In other constructions, the loader 30 a nominal voltage of the battery 20 identify. In these designs, the loader 30 any nominal voltage battery 20 by setting or displaying certain thresholds according to the nominal voltage of the battery 20 load. In these constructions every battery can 20 regardless of the nominal voltage about the same amplitude of the charging current for approximately the same period of time (for example, when the battery 20 about fully discharged) also received. The battery charger 30 may either set or display the thresholds (discussed below) or the measurements according to the nominal voltage of the battery 20 being loaded, set or displayed.

For example, the battery charger 30 identify a first battery that has a nominal voltage of approximately 21V and 5 battery cells. During charging, the battery charger modifies 30 every measurement that the loader 30 scans (eg the battery voltage) to get one measurement per cell. That means that the loader 30 divide each battery voltage measurement by 5 (eg five cells) to get approximately the average voltage of a cell. Accordingly, all thresholds in the battery charger 30 are correlated with one measurement per cell. The battery charger 30 may also identify a second battery having a nominal voltage of about 28V and 7 battery cells. Similar to the operation with the first battery, the battery charger modifies 30 each voltage measurement to obtain one measurement per cell. Again, all the thresholds in the battery charger 30 are correlated with one measurement per cell. In this example, the battery charger 30 use the same thresholds to monitor or interrupt the charging for the first and second batteries, causing the battery charger 30 can charge many batteries over a range of nominal voltages.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger lays down 30 the temperature of the battery 20 the charging scheme or charging method for charging the battery 20 based. In a construction, the battery charger leads 30 a charging current of the battery 20 too, while periodically lowering the temperature of the battery 20 detected or monitored. When the battery 20 does not contain a microprocessor or control unit, measures the battery charger 30 periodically the resistance of the thermistor 66 after predetermined periods of time. When the battery 20 a microprocessor or a control unit, for example a control unit 64 contains, 1) the battery charger asks 30 the controller periodically to determine the battery temperature and / or whether the battery temperature outside of a suitable operating range or outside suitable operating ranges is; or 2) the battery charger is waiting 30 on it, a signal from the control unit 64 to receive, indicating that the battery temperature is not within a suitable operating range, as explained below.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger sets the instantaneous voltage of the battery 20 Charging scheme or charging method for charging the battery 20 based. In some constructions, the battery charger leads 30 a charging current of the battery 20 while periodically detecting or monitoring the battery voltage after predetermined periods of time when the battery is running 20 is supplied and / or when the power is not supplied, as will be explained below. In some constructions, the battery charger lays 30 both the temperature and the voltage of the battery 20 the charging scheme or charging method for charging the battery 20 based. The charging scheme can also be based on individual cell voltages.

As soon as the battery temperature and / or the battery voltages exceed a predetermined threshold or do not fall within a suitable operating range, the battery charger interrupts 30 the charging current. The battery charger 30 continues to periodically detect or monitor the battery temperature / voltages and waits to receive a signal from the control unit 64 indicating that the battery temperature / voltages are within a suitable operating range. If the battery temperature / voltages are within a suitable operating range, the charging current of the battery 20 is fed, continue. The battery charger 30 continues to monitor the battery temperature / voltages and continues interrupting and resuming charging current based on the detected battery temperature / voltages. In some constructions, the battery charger interrupts or terminates 30 charging after a predetermined period of time or when the battery capacity reaches a predetermined threshold. In other constructions, the charging is stopped when the battery 20 from the battery charger 30 Will get removed.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger contains 30 a method of operating the charging of different batteries, for example the battery 20 that have different chemistries and / or nominal voltages. An example of this charging operation 200 is in 5a and 5b shown. In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger contains 30 a method of operating the charging of Li-based batteries, for example, batteries having Li-Co chemistry, Li-Mn spinel chemistry, Li-Mn nickel chemistry, and the like. In some constructions and in some aspects includes the loading operation 200 various modules for performing different functions in response to different battery conditions and / or battery characteristics.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the operating procedure contains 200 Modules for interrupting charging based on abnormal and / or normal battery conditions. In some constructions, the loader contains 200 a defective battery module, for example a defective battery module, which is shown in the flow chart 205 from 6 and / or a temperature-out-of-range module, for example, the temperature-out-of-range module shown in the flowchart 210 from 7 is shown. In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 in the defective battery module 205 to terminate charging based on abnormal battery voltage, abnormal cell voltage, and / or abnormal battery capacity. In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 in the temperature-out-of-range module 210 to terminate charging based on an abnormal battery temperature and / or one or more abnormal battery cell temperatures. In some constructions, the loader contains 200 More or less modules that terminate charging based on more or less battery conditions than the modules and states discussed above and below. Further constructions of a loading operation and of loading modules are in 28 - 38 shown.

In some constructions and in some aspects includes the loading operation 200 different modes or modules for charging the battery 20 based on different battery conditions. In some constructions, the loader contains 200 a trickle charge module, for example, the trickle charge module shown in the flowchart 215 from 8th 1, a step loader module, for example the step loader module, shown in the flowchart 220 from 9 1, a fast charging module, for example a fast charging module, shown in the flow chart 225 from 10 is shown, and / or a maintenance loading module, for example, the maintenance loading module or maintenance module shown in the flowchart 230 from 11 is shown.

In some constructions and in some aspects, every loading module will become 215 - 230 through the control unit 100 during the charging operation 200 based on certain battery temperature ranges, certain Temperature voltage ranges and / or certain battery capacity ranges selected. In some constructions every module becomes 215 - 230 through the control unit 100 on the basis of the battery property shown in Table 1 are selected. In some constructions, the "battery temperature" or "battery temperature" state may include the temperature of the battery taken as a whole (eg, battery cells, battery components, etc.) and / or the temperature of the battery cells picked up individually or together become. In some constructions, each load module can 215 - 230 on the same base charging scheme or charging algorithm, for example, a full charge current, as explained below.

Tabelle 1 Operation for charging Li-based batteries

Table 1

In some constructions and in some aspects, the charge current that is connected to the battery contains 20 during the float charge module 215 is applied, the application of a full charge current (eg "I") to the battery 20 for a first period of time, for example 10 seconds, and then interrupting the full charge current for a second period of time, for example 50 seconds. In some constructions, the full charge current is one pulse of the charging current at about a predetermined amplitude or value. In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 only in the trickle charge module 215 when the battery voltage is less than a first, predetermined voltage threshold V ₁ .

In some constructions and in some aspects, the charge current that is connected to the battery contains 20 during the fast charging module 225 is applied, the application of the full charge current to the battery 20 for a first period of time, for example one second, and then interrupting the full charge current for a second period of time, for example 50 ms. In some constructions, the control unit sets 100 a sub-timer to a first, predetermined time limit, for example, about two hours. In these designs, the battery charger implements 30 not the fast charging module 225 for the given period of time to a battery to avoid damage. In other constructions the battery charger switches 30 off (eg stops charging) when the preset time limit expires.

In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 only in the fast charging module 225 when the battery voltage is included in a range between the first voltage threshold V ₁ and a second predetermined voltage threshold V ₂ , and when the battery temperature falls within a range between a second battery temperature threshold T ₂ and a third battery temperature threshold T ₃ . In some constructions, the second voltage threshold V _{2 is} greater than the first voltage threshold V _1, and the third temperature threshold T ₃ is greater than the second temperature threshold T ₂ .

In some constructions and in some aspects, the charge current that is connected to the battery contains 20 during the step load module 220 is applied, the application of the charging current of the rapid charging module 225 to the battery 20 , but has a one-minute duty cycle with charging ("ON") and one minute with charging interrupted ("OFF"). In some constructions, the control unit sets 100 an auxiliary timer to a second, predetermined time limit, for example, about four hours. In these designs, the battery charger implements 30 the step loader module 220 for the given time limit, to avoid battery damage.

In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 only in the step loader module 220 when the battery voltage is included in a range from the first voltage threshold V ₁ to the second voltage threshold V ₂ , and when the battery temperature falls within a range from the first temperature threshold T ₁ to the second temperature threshold T ₂ . In some constructions, the second voltage threshold V _{2 is} greater than the first voltage threshold V ₁ and the second temperature threshold T ₂ is greater than the first temperature threshold T ₁ .

In some constructions and in some aspects, the charge current that is connected to the battery contains 20 during the maintenance module 230 is applied, the application of a full charge current to the battery 20 only if the battery voltage falls to a certain predetermined threshold. In some constructions, the threshold is about 4.05 V / cell +/- 1% per cell. In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 only in the maintenance module 32 when the battery voltage is included in the range of the second voltage threshold V ₂ to the third voltage threshold V ₃ , and when the battery temperature falls within the range of the first temperature threshold T ₁ to the third temperature threshold T ₃ .

In some constructions and in some aspects, the control unit implements 100 the different charging modules 220 - 230 based on different battery conditions. In some constructions, each load module contains 220 - 230 the same loading algorithm (eg the algorithm for applying the full charging current). Each loading module 220 - 230 implements, repeats, or contains the load algorithm in a different way. An example of a charging algorithm is the charging current algorithm described in the flowchart 250 from 12 is shown as explained below.

As in 5a and 5b is shown, the loading operation begins 200 if a battery, for example a battery 20 , in the battery charger 30 at the step 305 is used or with the battery charger 30 is electrically connected. At the step 310 determines the control unit 100 whether a stable current input, for example, the power source 130 , is applied or with the battery charger 30 connected is. As in 5a is specified, the same operation (i.e., the step 305 walk to the step 310 continued) still applied when power is applied after the battery 20 electrically with the battery charger 30 connected is.

If the control unit 100 determines that there is no stable input of applied current, activates the control unit 100 the scoreboard 110 not and no charge will the battery 20 at the step 315 created. In some constructions, the battery charger pulls 30 a small discharge current at the step 315 , In some constructions, the discharge current is approximately less than 0.1 mA.

If the control unit 100 determines that a stable input of applied current to the battery charger 30 at the step 310 is present, then the operation proceeds 200 to the step 320 continued. At the step 320 determines the control unit 100 whether all connections between the battery connections 45 . 50 and 55 and the battery charger connections 80 . 85 and 90 are stable. If the connections are not stable at the step 320 are, drives the control unit 100 with the step 315 continued.

When the links at step 320 stable, identifies the control unit 100 the chemistry of the battery 20 via the sensor connection 55 the battery 20 at the step 325 , In some constructions, the resistance sensing terminal is from the battery 20 when he passes through the control unit 100 is sampled, that the battery 20 has a chemistry of either NiCd or NiMH. In some constructions, the control unit measures 100 the resistance of the resistance sensing terminal to the chemistry of the battery 20 to determine. In some constructions, when the resistance of the sense terminal falls within a first range, then is the chemistry of the battery 20 eg NiCd. If the resistance of the sense terminal or sense wire falls within a second range, then is the chemistry of the battery 20 equal to NiMH.

In some constructions, NiCd batteries and NiMH batteries are powered by a battery charger 30 loaded using a single loading algorithm that is different from a loading algorithm implemented for batteries that have Li-based chemistries. For example, in some constructions, the single charging algorithm for NiCd and NiMH batteries is an existing charging algorithm for NiCd / NiMH batteries. In some constructions, the battery charger uses 30 the single charging algorithm for charging NiCd batteries with a different termination scheme than the termination scheme used to stop the charging of NiMH batteries. In some constructions, the battery charger stops 30 charging the NiCd batteries when a negative change in battery voltage (eg -ΔV) by the control unit 100 is detected. In some constructions, the battery charger stops 30 charging the NiMH battery when a change in battery temperature over time (eg, ΔT / dt) reaches or exceeds a predetermined completion threshold.

In some constructions, the NiCd batteries and / or the NiMH batteries are charged using a constant current algorithm. For example, the battery charger 30 the same charging circuit for charging different batteries, which have different battery chemistries, for example, NiCd, NiMH, Li-ion and the like included. In an exemplary construction, the loader 30 Use the charging circuit to apply the same full charge current to the NiCd and NiMH batteries as to the Li-ion battery using a constant current algorithm instead of pulsed charging. In another exemplary construction, the battery charger 30 show or set the full charging current through the charging circuit according to the battery chemistry.

In other constructions, the control unit determines 100 not the exact chemistry of the battery 20 , Rather, the control unit implements 100 a charging module that effectively charges both NiCd batteries and NiMH batteries.

In other constructions, the resistance of the sense terminal or sensing wire may indicate that the battery is being used 20 has a Li-based chemistry. For example, if the resistance of the sense terminal falls within a third range, then the chemistry of the battery is 20 on a Li basis.

In some constructions, there is a serial communication link between the battery charger 30 and the battery 20 passing through the sensing ports 55 and 90 is set to, that the battery 20 has a Li-based chemistry. If a serial communication link at step 320 is set up, sends a microprocessor or controller, for example, the control unit 64 in the battery 20 Information on the battery 20 to the control unit 100 in the battery charger 30 , The information between the battery 20 and the battery charger 30 may include battery chemistry, nominal voltage, battery capacity, battery temperature, individual cell voltages, number of charge cycles, number of discharge cycles, state of protection circuit or protection network (eg, enabled, disabled, enabled, etc.) ,

At the step 330 determines the control unit 100 whether the chemistry of the battery 20 Li-based or not. If the control unit 100 that determines the battery 20 a chemistry of either NiCd or NiMH at the step 330 has, the operation proceeds 200 to the NiCd / NiMH loading algorithm at step 335 continued.

If the control unit 100 that determines the battery 20 a chemistry that is Li-based at the step 330 has, the operation proceeds 200 to the step 340 continued. At the step 340 sets the control unit 100 any battery protection circuit, for example, a switch that is in the battery 20 is included, and determines the nominal voltage of the battery 20 over the communication connection. At the step 345 sets the control unit 100 the loader analog-to-digital converter ("A / D") to the appropriate value as a function of the nominal voltage.

At the step 350 measures the control unit 100 the existing voltage of the battery 20 , Once a Measurement has been made determines the control unit 100 whether the voltage of the battery 20 greater than 4.3 V / cell at the step 355 is. When the battery voltage is greater than 4.3V / cell at the step 355 is, the operation is progressing 200 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 360 continued. The faulty battery module 205 will be explained below.

If the battery voltage is not greater than 4.3 V / cell at the step 355 is, measures the control unit 100 the battery temperature at the step 365 and determines if the battery temperature falls below -20 ° C or exceeds 65 ° C at step 370 , When the battery temperature is below -20 ° C or above 65 ° C at the step 370 is, the operation is progressing 200 to the temperature-out-of-range module 210 at the step 375 continued. The temperature-out-of-range module 210 will be explained below.

When the battery temperature is not below -20 ° C or not 65 ° C at the step 370 exceeds, then determines the control unit 100 at the step 380 (in 5b shown), whether the battery temperature falls between -20 ° C and 0 ° C. When the battery temperature is between -20 ° C and 0 ° C at step 380 falls, the operation progresses 200 to the step 385 continued. At the step 385 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery voltage is less than 3.5 V / cell. When the battery voltage is less than 3.5 V / cell, the operation proceeds 200 to the trickle load module 215 at the step 390 continued. The trickle charge module 215 will be explained below.

When the battery voltage is not less than 3.5V / cell at the step 385 is, determines the control unit 100 Whether the battery voltage is in the voltage range of 3.5 V / cell to 4.1 V / cell at the step 395 is. If the battery voltage is not in the voltage range from 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 395 is, the operation is progressing 200 to the maintenance module 230 at the step 400 continued. The maintenance module 230 will be explained below.

When the battery voltage in the voltage range from 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 395 is included deletes the control unit 100 a counter, for example a load counter, at the step 405 , Once the loading counter at step 405 has been deleted, the operation proceeds 200 to the step loader module 220 at the step 410 continued. The step loader module 220 and the load counter will be explained below.

According to the step 380 If the battery temperature is not within the range of -10 ° C and 0 ° C, the controller determines 100 whether the battery voltage is less than 3.5V / cell at the step 415 is. When the battery voltage is less than 3.5V / cell at the step 415 is, the operation is progressing 200 to the trickle load module 215 at the step 420 continued.

When the battery voltage is not less than 3.5V / cell at the step 415 is, determines the control unit 100 Whether the battery voltage is in the voltage range of 3.5 V / cell to 4.1 V / cell at the step 425 is. If the battery voltage is not in the voltage range from 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 425 is included, the operation proceeds 200 to the maintenance module 230 at the step 430 continued.

When the battery voltage in the voltage range from 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 425 is included deletes the control unit 100 a counter, for example the loading counter at the step 435 , Once the loading counter at step 435 has been deleted, the operation proceeds 200 to the fast charging module 225 at the step 440 continued. The fast charging module 225 will be explained below.

6 is a flow chart showing the operation of the faulty battery module 205 shows. The operation of the module 205 starts when the main charging operation 200 in the faulty battery module 205 at the step 460 entry. The control unit 100 interrupts the charging current during the step 465 and activates the indicator 110 , for example, the first LED, at the step 470 , In the construction shown controls the control unit 100 the first LED, so that it flashes at a frequency of about 4 Hz. Once the scoreboard 110 in step 470 has been activated, the module ends 205 at the step 475 and the operation 200 can also end.

7 FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating operation of the temperature-out-of-range module. FIG 210 explained. The operation of the module 210 starts when the main charging operation 200 in the temperature-out-of-range module 210 at the step 490 entry. The control unit 100 interrupts the charging current during the step 495 and activates the indicator 110 , for example, the first LED, at the step 500 , In the illustrated construction, the control unit controls 100 the first LED is blinking at a frequency of about 1 Hz to indicate to the user that the battery charger 30 currently in the temperature-out-of-range module 210 is. Once the scoreboard 110 in step 500 has been activated, the operation leaves 200 the module 210 and proceeds to where the operation is 200 has been left.

8th is a flow chart showing the trickle charge module 215 shows. The operation of the module 215 starts when the main charging operation 200 into the trickle loading module 215 at the step 520 entry. The control unit 100 activates the indicator 110 , for example, the first LED 115 , at the step 525 to indicate to the user that the battery charger 30 currently the battery 20 invites. In the illustrated construction, the control unit activates 100 the first LED 115 such that it constantly turns on).

Once the scoreboard 110 in step 525 has been activated, initializes the control unit 100 a counter, for example a trickle charge counter, at the step 530 , In the construction shown, the trickle charge counter has a count limit of 20.

At the step 540 the control unit starts 100 , ten one-second ("1-s") full of current pulses or pulses to the battery 20 and then stops charging for 50 seconds ("50-s"). In some constructions, there are 50 ms time intervals between the 1 second pulses.

At the step 545 measures the control unit 100 the battery voltage when a charging current to the battery 20 (eg, power on times) to determine if the battery voltage exceeds 4.6 V / cell. When the battery voltage is 4.6V / cell during the power-on times at step 545 exceeds, the module proceeds 215 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 550 and would go at the step 552 end up. If the battery voltage is not 4.6V / cell during the power-on times at step 545 exceeds, the control unit measures 100 the battery temperature and the battery voltage when charging current is not applied to the battery 20 (eg power off times) at the step 555 is created.

At the step 560 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery temperature drops below -10 ° C or exceeds 65 ° C. When the battery temperature is below -10 ° C or above 65 ° C at the step 560 is, the module is progressing 215 to the temperature out of range module 210 at the step 565 and would at the step 570 end up. When the battery temperature is not below -20 ° C or not above 65 ° C at the step 560 is, determines the control unit 100 Whether the battery voltage is in the range of 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 575 is included.

When the battery voltage in the range from 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 575 is included, the control unit then determines whether the battery temperature is in the range of -20 ° C to 0 ° C at the step 580 is included. When the battery temperature is in the range of -20 ° C to 0 ° C at step 580 is included, the module proceeds 215 to the step loader module 220 at the step 585 continued. If the battery temperature is not in the range of -20 ° C to 0 ° C at the step 580 is included, the module proceeds 215 to the fast charging module 225 at the step 590 continued.

If the battery voltage is not in the range of 3.5V / cell to 4.1V / cell at the step 575 is included, the control unit increments 100 the trickle counter counters in step 595 , At the step 600 determines the control unit 100 whether the trickle count counter is equal to the counter limit, for example 20. If the counter is not equal to the counter limit at step 600 is, the module is progressing 215 to the step 540 continued. If the counter is not the counter limit at step 600 is equal, the module steps 215 to the faulty battery module at the step 605 and would go at the step 610 end up.

9 is a flow chart showing the step loader module 220 shows. The operation of the module 220 starts when the main charging operation 200 in the step loader module 220 at the step 630 entry. The control unit 100 activates the indicator 110 , for example, the first LED 115 , at the step 635 to indicate to the user that the battery charger 30 currently the battery 20 invites. In the illustrated construction, the control unit activates 100 the first LED 115 such that it constantly turns on).

At the step 640 starts the control unit 100 a first timer or load-on timer. In the illustrated construction, the on-load timer counts down from one minute. At the step 645 the module steps 220 to the charging current algorithm 250 continued. Once the charging current algorithm 250 is performed determines the control unit 100 whether the charge count is equal to the count limit, for example 7,200, at step 650 , When the charge count count equals the count limit at step 650 is, the module is progressing 220 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 655 away and the module 220 would at the step 660 end up.

If the charge count is not the count limit at step 650 is the same, determines the control unit 100 whether the wait time between current pulses (as will be explained below) is greater than or equal to a first wait time threshold, for example, 2 seconds, at the step 665 , If the waiting time is greater or equal to the first wait time threshold at the step 665 is, activates the control unit 100 the scoreboard 110 at the step 670 , for example, the first LED 115 switched off and the second LED 120 is activated so that it flashes at approximately 1 Hz. If the wait time is not greater than or equal to the first wait time threshold at the step 665 is, the module is progressing 220 to the step 690 continued, which will be explained below.

Once the scoreboard 110 at the step 670 has been activated determines the control unit 100 whether the wait time between current pulses is greater than or equal to a second wait time threshold, for example 15 seconds, at the step 675 , If the wait time is greater than or equal to the second wait time threshold at step 675 is, changes the control unit 100 the scoreboard 110 at the step 680 , for example, it activates the second LED 120 such that the second LED 120 appears as constantly switched on. The module 220 then proceeds to the maintenance module 230 at the step 685 continued.

If the wait time is not greater than or equal to the second wait time threshold at step 675 is, determines the control unit 100 whether the battery temperature is greater than 0 ° C at the step 690 is. When the battery temperature is greater than 0 ° C at the step 690 is, the module is progressing 220 to the fast charging module 225 at the step 695 continued. If the battery temperature is not greater than 0 ° C at the step 690 is, determines the control unit 100 Whether the load-on timer is at the step 700 has expired.

If the load-on timer is not in step 700 has expired, the module proceeds 220 to the charging current algorithm 250 at the step 645 continued. If the loading-on-timer at step 700 has expired, activates the control unit 100 a second timer or a charge-off timer at the step 705 and interrupts the loading. At the step 710 determines the control unit 100 whether the store-off timer has expired. If the store-off timer is not in step 710 has expired, the control unit is waiting 100 to a given time value at the step 715 and then walk back to the crotch 710 , If the store-off timer is not in step 710 has expired, the module proceeds 220 back to the step 640 to restart the load-on timer.

10 is a flow chart that shows a quick charge module 225 explained. The operation of the module 225 starts when the main charging operation 200 in the fast charging module 225 at the step 730 entry. The control unit 100 activates the indicator 110 , for example, the first LED 115 , at the step 735 to indicate to the user that the battery charger 30 currently the battery 20 invites. In the illustrated construction, the control unit activates 100 the first LED 115 such that it appears constantly turned on.

At the step 740 the module steps 225 to the charging current algorithm 250 continued. Once the charging current algorithm 250 is performed determines the control unit 100 , whether the charge count equals the count limit (eg 7,200) at the step 745 is. When the charge count equals the count limit at step 745 is, the module is progressing 220 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 750 away and the module 220 would at the step 755 end up.

If the charge count does not equal the count limit at step 745 is, determines the control unit 100 whether the wait time between current pulses is greater than or equal to the first wait time threshold (eg, two seconds) at the step 760 is. If the wait time is greater than or equal to the first wait time threshold at step 760 is, activates the control unit 100 the scoreboard 110 at the step 765 , for example, it turns on the first LED 115 and activates the second LED 120 such that it flashes at about 1 Hz. If the wait time is not greater than or equal to the first wait time threshold at the step 760 is, the module is progressing 225 to the step 785 continued, which will be explained below.

Once the scoreboard 110 at the step 765 is activated, determines the control unit 100 Whether the wait time between power pulses is greater than or equal to a second wait time threshold (eg, 15 seconds) at the step 770 is. If the wait time is greater than or equal to the second wait time threshold at step 770 is, changes the control unit 100 the scoreboard 110 at the step 775 , for example, such that they are the second LED 120 so activated that the second LED 120 as constant one appears. The module 225 then proceeds to the maintenance module 230 at the step 780 continued.

If the wait time is not greater than or equal to the second wait time threshold at step 770 is, determines the control unit 100 Whether the battery temperature is in the range of -20 ° C to 0 ° C at the step 785 is included. When the battery temperature in the area at step 785 containing, the module proceeds 225 to the step loader module 220 at the step 790 continued. If the battery temperature is not in the range at step 785 is included, the module proceeds 225 back to the charging algorithm 250 at the step 740 ,

11 is a flow chart showing the maintenance module 230 explained. The operation of the module 230 starts when the main charging operation 200 in the maintenance module 230 at the step 800 entry. The control unit 100 determines if the battery voltage is within the range of 3.5V / cell to 4.05V / cell at step 805 is included. If the battery voltage is not in the range at step 805 is included, drives the control unit 100 with it, in step 805 to remain until the battery voltage is included in the range. Once the battery voltage in the area at step 805 is included, initializes the control unit 100 a maintenance timer at the step 810 , In some constructions, the maintenance timer counts down by 30 minutes.

At the step 815 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery temperature drops below -20 ° C or exceeds 65 ° C. When the battery temperature drops below -20 ° C or 65 ° C at the step 815 exceeds, the module proceeds 230 to the temperature-out-of-range module 210 at the step 820 continued and the module would step at 825 end up. When the battery temperature does not fall below -20 ° C or not 65 ° C at the step 815 exceeds, the module proceeds 230 to the charging current algorithm 250 at the step 830 continued.

Once the charging current algorithm 250 at the step 830 is performed determines the control unit 100 whether the maintenance timer at step 835 has expired. When the maintenance timer has expired, the module proceeds 230 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 840 away and the module 230 would at the step 845 end up. If the maintenance timer is not in step 835 has expired, determines the control unit 100 whether the waiting time between the current pulses is greater than or equal to a first, predefined maintenance waiting period, for example of 15 seconds, at the step 850 is.

If the waiting time is greater than the first predetermined maintenance waiting period in step 850 is, the module is progressing 230 to the step 805 continued. If the waiting time is not greater than and equal to the first predetermined maintenance waiting time at the step 850 is, the module is progressing 230 to the charging current algorithm 250 at the step 830 continued. In some constructions, the battery charger remains 30 in the maintenance module 230 until the battery 20 from the battery charger 30 Will get removed.

12 FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating the basic charging scheme or the charging current algorithm. FIG 250 explained. The operation of the module 250 starts when the other modules 220 - 230 or the main charging operation 200 in the charging current algorithm 250 at the step 870 entry. The control unit 100 put a full current pulse for about a second at the step 875 at. At the step 880 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery voltage is greater than 4.6V / cell when power to the battery 20 is created.

When the battery voltage is greater than 4.6V / cell at the step 880 is, the algorithm proceeds 250 to the faulty battery module 205 at the step 885 gone and the algorithm 250 would at the step 890 end up. If the battery voltage is not greater than 4.6 V / cell at the step 880 is, the control unit interrupts 100 the charging current, increments a counter, for example the charging current counter, and stores the count value at the step 895 ,

At the step 900 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery temperature drops below -20 ° C or exceeds 65 ° C. When the battery temperature drops below -20 ° C or 65 ° C at the step 900 exceeds, the algorithm proceeds 250 to the temperature-out-of-range module 210 at the step 905 gone and the algorithm 250 ends at the step 910 , When the battery temperature does not fall below -20 ° C or not 65 ° C at the step 900 exceeds, the control unit measures 100 the battery voltage when the charging current is not the battery 20 at the step 915 is supplied.

At the step 920 determines the control unit 100 whether the battery voltage is less than 4.2V / cell. When the battery voltage is less than 4.2V / cell at the step 920 is, the algorithm proceeds 250 to the step 875 continued. When the battery voltage is not less than 4.2V / cell at the step 920 is, the control unit waits 100 until the battery voltage is approximately equal to 4.2V / cell at the step 925 is. The control unit 100 saves at the step 925 also the waiting time. The algorithm 250 ends at the step 930 ,

In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger may 30 another operating method for charging various batteries, for example the battery 20 , which have different chemistries and / or nominal voltages. An example of this loading operation is in 28 - 38 shown. In some constructions and in some aspects, the battery charger contains 30 an operating method for loading Li-based batteries, for example, batteries having Li-Co chemistry, Li-Mn spinel chemistry, Li-Mn nickel chemistry, and the like. In some constructions and in some aspects includes the loading operation 200 various modules for performing different functions in response to different battery conditions and / or battery characteristics.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the method of charging includes modules for interrupting charging based on abnormal and / or normal battery conditions. In some constructions, the charging operation includes a faulty battery module and / or an out-of-range temperature module, for example, the temperature-out-of-range module shown in the flowchart 2235 from 36 is explained. In some constructions, the battery charger occurs 30 into the faulty battery module to terminate charging based on abnormal battery voltage, abnormal cell voltage, and / or abnormal battery capacity. In some constructions, the battery charger enters the temperature-out-of-range module 2235 to terminate charging based on an abnormal battery temperature and / or one or more battery cell temperatures. In some constructions, the charging operation includes more or fewer modules that terminate charging based on one or more battery conditions than the modules and conditions discussed above and below.

In some constructions and in some aspects, the charging operation includes various modes or modules for charging the battery 20 based on various battery conditions or battery levels within the operation. In some constructions, the charging operation includes a trickle charge module, for example, the sustain (limited) load module shown in the flowchart 2225 from 34 and the maintenance (step) module shown in the flowchart 2220 from 33 is shown, a fast charging module, for example, the rapid charging module, in the flowchart 2215 from 32 is shown, and / or a maintenance charging module, for example, the maintenance module, in the flowchart 2230 from 35 and also other modules, for example the flat-battery wake-up module shown in the flow chart 2210 from 31 is shown, and the charging module and Akkueinsetzmodul 2200 (which starts loading) in the flowchart 2205 from 29 and 30 or in the flowchart 2200 from 28 are shown. The charging operation also includes a charging current algorithm, for example the algorithm described in the flowchart 2240 from 37 and 38 that other modules implement in different ways.

An example of a portion of the charging operation will be described with reference to FIG 28 - 30 specified. For example, charging starts with the battery insertion module 2200 , as in 28 is shown. Operation starts with energy or power supplied to the battery charger (at 2305 ), and the battery charger 30 determines whether the input voltage V _in within the correct operating parameters (eg 80 V <V _in <140 V) (at 2310 ). If the input voltage V _{in is} not within the operating parameters, then the battery charger shuts off 30 loading (at 2315 ). The battery charger 30 can also indicate to the user whether the appropriate input voltage V _{in is} supplied (at 2315 ).

When the battery charger 30 receiving the appropriate input voltage V _in is the battery pack 20 with the loader (at 2325 ) and the loader 30 determines whether appropriate connections (eg, connections between ports) have been established (at step 2330 ). If the appropriate connections have not been established, the loader will fail 30 no LEDs (at 2335 ) lights up and the charging operation ends (at 2340 ). When the connections have been established, the loader detects 30 the presence of a battery 20 via a voltage to the control unit 100 (at 2345 ) and the control unit 100 measures the voltage V _{pack of} the battery 20 (at 2350 ).

The loader 30 determines whether the battery _voltage V _{pack is} less than 5V (at 2355 ). When the battery voltage V _{pack is} less than 5 V, the charging operation proceeds to the flat-battery waking module 2210 (at 2360 ). If the battery _voltage V _{pack is} not less than 5V, the charger will try 30 , a communication with the battery 20 (at 2365 ) and determines whether the communication has been established or not (at 2370 ). If the communication has not been set up, the loader fails 30 no ads or indicators (at 2375 ) lights up and the charging operation ends (at 2380 ). When the communication has been established, the charging operation continues with the charging module 2205 (at 2385 ).

The charging module 2205 is in 29 and 30 shown. The charging module 2205 starts with the loader 30 , which identifies the ackunominal voltage and the appropriate measurement parameters (at 2405 ) and the cell voltages of the battery 20 (at 2410 ) to determine if any cell voltage is greater than an upper threshold (eg, 4.35V) (at 2415 ) or not. If any cell is greater than the upper threshold, the loader activates 30 no LEDs (ei 2420 ) and the charging operation ends (at 2425 ). If no cell is greater than the upper threshold, the loader measures 30 the battery voltage at the terminals of the charger 30 (at 2430 ) and polls the battery _voltage V _pack as it passes through the battery 20 (at 2435 ) is measured to determine if the measurements match (at 2440 ). If the measurements do not match, the loader activates 30 no LEDs (at 2445 ) and the charging operation ends (at 2450 ).

If the measurements match, the loader asks 30 the battery 20 after the battery temperature (at 2455 ) to determine if the battery temperature is within the operating range (at 2460 ). If the battery voltage is not within the desired operating range, the operation proceeds to the temperature-out-of-range module 2235 (at 2465 ) and the loader 30 can the battery 20 again after the battery temperature information (at 2455 ) as soon as the charging operation is the temperature-out-of-range module 2235 leaves.

If the battery temperature is within the desired operating range, the charger determines 30 whether the battery _voltage V _{pack is} greater than a maintenance threshold (eg, 4.1 V per cell) (at 2470 ) and the charging operation proceeds to the maintenance module 2230 when the battery _voltage V _{pack is} greater than the maintenance threshold (at 2475 ). Otherwise, the loader determines 30 whether the battery _voltage V _{pack is} less than a maintenance threshold (eg 3.5 V per cell) (at 2480 ) and the charging operation proceeds to the maintenance (limited) module 2225 when the battery _voltage V _{pack is} below the sustain threshold (at 2485 ). If the battery voltage is not less than the sustain threshold, the charger will determine 30 whether the battery temperature within a maintenance range (at 2490 ). The operation proceeds to the maintenance (step) module 2220 (at 2495 ) when the temperature is within the maintenance range and proceeds to the fast charge module 2215 (at 2505 ) if the temperature is not within the maintenance range. The charging mode can continue as in the other modules, as indicated in the other modules that are in 31 - 38 are shown.

During the charging operation, the in 28 - 38 is shown, the battery charger leads 30 Electricity of the battery 20 using a pulse charging method or pulse charging method. In a construction, the battery charger leads 30 Pulse of the battery 20 too, which each time have the same pulse width, but varies the time between the pulses. This is called "full charge current" or "full charge pulse". In other constructions, for example the constructions, which are in 16 and 39 can be shown, the full charge or the full charge, by the battery charger 30 according to the individual cell voltages in the battery 20 be set. This implementation is related to the 4 . 16 and 39 described.

As in 4 is shown, the control unit 100 in the battery charger 30 Information from the microcontroller 64 in the battery 20 receive and information about the microcontroller 64 in the battery 20 send. In some constructions, the microcontroller may 64 monitor various battery characteristics during charging, including the voltages or instantaneous state of charge of each of the battery cells 60 either automatically or in response to a command from the battery charger 30 , The microcontroller 64 can monitor certain battery characteristics and process or measurements during the times of the charging current T _A (ie "power on" -Zeitdauern) form the average. In some constructions, the power-on time may be about 1 second ("1-s"). During periods of no charging current T _out (ie, "power off" periods), information regarding particular battery characteristics (eg cell voltages or cell state of charging) may be provided by the battery 20 to the loader 30 be transmitted. In some constructions, the current-off duration T _{off is} approximately 50 ms. The battery charger 30 can get the information from the battery 20 are sent, process and modify the current-on time period T _An appropriately. For example, if a battery cell or multiple battery cells 60 have a higher, current state of charge than the remaining battery cells 60 , the battery charger can 30 make the subsequent power-on durations T _A smaller to avoid overcharging the one higher battery cell or multiple higher battery cells.

In some constructions, the battery charger can 30 compare each individual cell voltage with an average cell voltage, and when the difference between the single cell voltage and the average cell voltage is equal to a predetermined threshold or exceeds the predetermined threshold (eg, an imbalance threshold), the charger may 30 identify the cell as a cell in a higher state of charge. The battery charger 30 may modify the current-on time period T _a. In other constructions, the battery charger 30 the state of charge for a particular battery cell (for example, a battery cell identified as a higher voltage cell) during power on durations based on the information it receives from the battery 20 receives, determine or estimate. In these designs, when the determination of the present state of charge the cell exceeds a threshold, the battery charger 30 the duration of the current-on period T on _a modify.

For example, as in 16 and 39 shown is the battery charger 30 the battery 20 command to average the cell voltage _measurements taken during the next power-on period T _in1 . The command may be sent during the first power off period T _out1 . Accordingly, the microcontroller measures 64 during the first power-on period T ₁ and averages the cell _voltages as well as the other battery _parameters . During the next power-off period T out ₂ , the battery can 20 the averaged measurements to the battery charger 30 send. In some constructions, the battery can 20 eight averaged measurements, for example, an averaged battery state of charge measurement and an averaged single cell state of charge for each of the seven battery cells 60 , send. For example, the battery 20 send the following information: cell 1 14%, cell 2 14%, cell 3 15%, cell 4 14%, cell 5 16%, cell 6 14%, cell 7 14% and battery voltage (eg cells 1-7) 29, 96 V. In this example, the battery charger identifies 30 the cell 5 as a higher battery cell. The loader 30 Also records the battery voltage as measured by both the battery microcontroller 64 as well as the battery charger 30 on. In this example, the battery charger measures 30 the battery voltage is approximately 30.07 V. The battery charger 30 calculates the difference in battery voltage measurements (eg, 110 mV) and determines the voltage drop across the terminals and wires at approximately 110 mV.

During the subsequent power-on period T _in2 , the battery charger estimates 30 the voltage of cell 5. For example, the battery charger is feeling 30 the measurements of the voltage of the cell 20 From and for each battery voltage measurement it determines the state of charge for the cell 5 according to the following equation: (V Battery / ch - V connections ) · V cell where V _{battery / ch is} the voltage of the battery 20 is how she got through the loader 30 V _{terminals is} the voltage drop at the terminals (eg 110 mV) and V _{cell is} the voltage of the cell, which is determined as a percentage of the battery voltage. If the determination of the voltage of cell 5 exceeds a threshold ("the reduction threshold"), the battery charger may 30 modify the subsequent current on duration T _ein3 . In this example, the battery charger remembers 30 when the determination (or calculation) of the voltage of the cell 5 reaches the reduction threshold, which is about 800 ms. As in 39 is shown, the loader identifies 30 the cell 5 and calculates the cell 5 as a high battery cell and modifies the subsequent current on duration T _in3 such that it is approximately equal to the duration to which the charger is subjected 30 reminds (eg 800 ms). Accordingly, the length T _{2 of} the current on duration T _{in3 is} smaller than the length T _{1 of} the preceding current on durations T _in1 and T _in2 .

In some constructions the loader drives 30 approximately T _in3 to continue the subsequent power-on periods of time (eg T _ein4-5) to the length T ₂ of the previous power-on time period (for example 800 ms). If cell 5 (or another cell) continues to be identified as a high cell, the loader may become 30 change the length of the subsequent current on durations (eg, T _in6 ), eg, from T ₂ (about 800 ms) to T ₃ (eg, about 600 ms) when the voltage of cell 5 continues to change the reduction threshold (eg, at 600 ms ) reached.

In other constructions, the loader 30 also set the subsequent power-on durations (eg, T _in5 ) back to approximately the length of T ₁ (thus increasing the on-time subsequent to reducing the on-time) when the loader 30 determines that the battery cells are not receiving enough power. For example, the battery charger 30 the current on durations increase when the loader determines that the voltage of the cell 5, despite being high or an unbalanced location, is too far below the reduction threshold at the end of the on time period. In these constructions, the battery charger 30 continue to modify the length of the current pulses (eg, on-time duration) in consideration of the battery cell voltages to optimize the charge amount received by the cells with a small overcharge. In some constructions, the battery charger can 30 do not increase the current on time so that it is greater than an initial current on period, for example the duration T _on1 .

Another schematic diagram of a battery 20 ' is schematic in 13 shown. The battery 20 ' is similar to the battery 20 and common elements are identified with the same reference numerals.

In some constructions, the circuit contains 62 ' an electrical component, for example a identification resistor 950 , and the identification resistance 950 can have a set resistance. In other constructions, the electrical component may be a capacitor, a coil, a transistor, a semiconductor element, an electrical circuit, or other component that has a resistance or that can send an electrical signal, such as a microprocessor, a digital logic component, and the like. In the illustrated construction, the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 based on characteristics of the battery 20 ' , for example, the nominal voltage and the chemistry of the stress cell (s) 60 ' , to be selected. A sensing connection 55 ' can be electrically connected to the identification resistor 950 be connected.

The battery 20 ' that is schematically in 13 can be electrically connected to an electrical device, for example a battery charger 960 (also shown schematically). The battery charger 960 can make a positive connection 964 , a negative connection 968 and a sensing connection 972 contain. Every connection 964 . 968 . 972 of the battery charger 960 can be electrical with the appropriate connector 45 ' . 50 ' respectively. 55 ' the battery 20 ' be connected. The battery charger 960 may also include a circuit having electrical components, for example, a first resistor 976 , a second resistor 980 , a solid-state electronic device or semiconductor 984 , a comparator 988 and a processor, microcontroller or controller (not shown). In some constructions, the semiconductor can 984 include a transistor that can operate in saturation or an "on" state and can operate in a power down or in an "off" state. In some constructions, the comparator 988 an associated voltage monitoring device, a microprocessor or a processing unit. In other constructions, the comparator 988 in the control unit (not shown).

In some constructions, the controller (not shown) may be programmed to measure the resistance of the electrical component in the battery 20 ' to identify, for example, the identification resistance 950 , The control unit may also be programmed to have one or more characteristics of the battery 20 ' , for example, the battery chemistry and the nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' to determine. As mentioned previously, the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 corresponding to the associated value associated with a battery characteristic or several battery characteristics. For example, the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 in a range of resistance values according to the chemistry and nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' be included.

In some constructions, the controller may be programmed to include a plurality of resistance regions of the identification resistor 950 can recognize. In these constructions, each area corresponds to a battery chemistry, for example, NiCd, NiMH, Li-ion, and the like. In some constructions, the controller may detect additional resistance ranges, each corresponding to a different battery chemistry or battery characteristic.

In some constructions, the controller may be programmed to detect a variety of voltage ranges. The voltages contained in the voltage ranges can be determined by the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 depend on or correspond to this, so that the control unit determines the value of the resistor 950 based on the measured voltage.

In some constructions, the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 be further selected so that it for each possible nominal voltage value of the battery 20 ' is unique. For example, in a range of resistance values, a first associated resistance value may correspond to a nominal voltage of 21V, a second associated resistance value may correspond to a nominal voltage of 16.8V, and a third associated resistance value may correspond to a nominal voltage of 12.6V. In some constructions, there may be more or less associated resistance values, each of a different, possible nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' corresponding to the resistance range.

In an exemplary implementation, the battery connects 20 ' with the battery charger 960 , To identify a first battery characteristic, the semiconductor switches 984 to the "on" state under the control of an additional circuit (not shown). If the semiconductor 984 in the "ON" state, generate the identification resistor 950 and the resistors 976 and 980 a voltage divider network. The network establishes a voltage V _A at a first reference point 992 one. When the resistance of the resistor 980 significantly lower than the resistance of the resistor 976 is, the voltage V _A depends on the resistance values of the identification resistor 950 and the resistance 980 from. In this implementation, the voltage V _{A is} in a range determined by the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 is determined. The control unit (not shown) measures the voltage V _A at the first reference Point 992 and determines the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 based on the voltage V _A. In some constructions, the controller compares the voltage V _A to a plurality of voltage ranges to determine the battery characteristic.

In some constructions, the first battery characteristic that is identified may include the battery chemistry. For example, any resistance below 150K ohms may indicate that the battery 20 ' has a chemistry with NiCd or NiMH, and any resistance value of approximately 150 kohms or above may indicate that the battery 20 ' has a chemistry with Li or Li-ion. Once the control unit determines the chemistry and the battery 20 ' determined, a suitable charging algorithm or a suitable charging method can be selected. In other constructions, there are more resistance ranges corresponding to a different battery chemistry than in the previous example.

Now, proceed with the exemplary implementation in which the semiconductor 984 in order to identify a second battery characteristic, switches to the "off" state under the control of the additional circuit. If the semiconductor 984 switches to the "OFF" state, generate the identification resistor 950 and the resistance 976 a voltage divider network. The voltage V _A at the first reference point 992 is now determined by the resistance values of the identification resistor 950 and the resistance 976 certainly. The resistance value of the identification resistor 950 is selected so that when the voltage V _BATT at a second reference point 1012 essentially equal to the nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' is the voltage V _A at the first reference point 992 substantially equal to a voltage V _REF at a third reference point 996 is. When the voltage V _A at the first reference point 992 the fixed voltage V _REF at the third reference point 996 exceeds, changes an output V _{OUT of} the comparator 988 the condition. In some constructions, the output V _OUT may be used to terminate charging or serve as an indicator to initiate additional functions, such as a maintenance routine, a balancing routine, a discharge function, an additional charging process, and the like. In some constructions, the voltage V _{REF may be} a fixed reference voltage.

In some constructions, the second battery characteristic that is identified may have a nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' contain. For example, the general equation for calculating the resistance value of the identification resistor 958 be:

Where R _{100 is} the resistance value of the identification resistor 950 R _{135 is} the resistance of the resistor 976 V _{BATT is} the nominal _{voltage of} the battery 20 ' and V _REF is a predetermined voltage, for example about 2.5 V. For example, in the range of the resistance values for the Li-ion chemistry (discussed above), a resistance value of approximately 150 k ohms for the identification resistor 950 correspond to a nominal voltage of approximately 21V, a resistance value of approximately 194K ohms to a nominal value of approximately 16.8V, and may correspond to a resistance of approximately 274.7K ohms to a nominal voltage of approximately 12.6V. In other constructions, more or less associated resistance values may correspond to additional or different battery nominal voltage values.

In the illustrated construction, both the identification resistance 950 as well as the third reference point 996 on the "high" side of a current sensing resistor 1000 are located. The positioning of the identification resistor 950 and the third reference point 996 in this way, any relative voltage fluctuations between V _A and V _REF can be reduced when a charging current is present. Voltage fluctuations can occur in the voltage V _A when the identification resistor 950 and the third reference point 996 on earth 1004 and a charging current to the battery 20 ' is created.

In some constructions, the battery charger can 960 also contain a loader control function. As previously explained, when the voltage V _A is substantially equal to the voltage V _REF (indicating that the voltage V _{BATT is} equal to the nominal voltage of the battery 20 ' is), the output V _{OUT of} the comparator changes 988 the condition. In some constructions, the charging current no longer becomes the battery 20 ' supplied when the output V _{OUT of} the comparator 988 the state changes. As soon as the charging current is interrupted, the battery _voltage V _BATT begins to _decrease . When the voltage V _{BATT reaches} a lower threshold, the output V _{OUT of} the comparator changes 988 the state again. In some constructions, the lower threshold voltage V _{BATT becomes} a resistance value of a hysteresis resistor 1008 certainly. The charging current is re-established as soon as the output V _{OUT of} the comparator 988 the state changes again. In some constructions, this cycle is repeated for a predetermined period of time, as determined by the controller, or for a particular number of state changes made by the comparator 988 be made, repeated. In some constructions, this cycle is repeated until the battery 20 ' from the battery charger 96 ) Will get removed.

In some constructions and in some aspects may be a battery, for example the battery 20 , in the 17 shown is to be discharged so that the battery cells 60 insufficient voltage for communication with the battery charger 30 to have. As in 17 shown is the battery 20 a battery cell or multiple battery cells 60 , a positive connection 1105 and a negative connection 1110 and one sensing port or multiple sensing ports 1120a and 1120b included (as in 17 is shown, the second sensing port or the activation port 1120b in the battery 20 or not included in the battery). The battery 20 can also have a circuit 1130 contain a microcontroller 1140 contains.

As in 17 shown is the circuit 1130 a semiconductor switch 1180 included, which interrupts the charging current when the circuit 1130 (eg the microprocessor 1140 ) determines or senses a condition above or below a predetermined threshold (ie, an "abnormal battery condition"). In some constructions, the switch contains 1180 a disconnect state, in which power from the battery 20 or to the battery 20 is interrupted, and a permission state in which electricity from the battery 20 or to the battery 20 is allowed. In some constructions, an abnormal battery condition may include, for example, a high or low battery cell temperature, a high or low battery state, a high or low battery cell state, a high or low discharge current, a high or low charge current, or the like. In the illustrated constructions, the switch contains 1180 a power FET or a metal oxide semiconductor FET ("MOS-FET"). In other constructions, the circuit 1130 two switches 1180 contain. In these designs, the switches can 1180 be arranged parallel to each other. The parallel switches 1180 may be included in battery batteries that provide a high average discharge current (for example, the battery is carrying 20 Power of a circular saw, a cordless screwdriver and the like too).

In some constructions, as soon as the switch 1180 becomes non-conductive, the switch 1180 can not be reset even if the abnormal condition is no longer detected. In some constructions, the switch can 1130 (eg the microprocessor 1140 ) the switch 180 only reset if an electrical device, for example, a battery charger 30 , the microprocessor 1140 orders to do so. As previously mentioned, the battery can 20 be discharged so that the battery cells 60 not enough voltage to the microprocessor 1140 to supply it with the battery charger 30 can communicate.

In some constructions, when the battery 20 not with the loader 30 can communicate, the battery charger 30 a small charge current through the body diode 1210 of the switch 1180 Feed to the battery cells 60 to load slowly. Once the cells 60 enough charge current to power the microprocessor 1140 may have received the microprocessor 1140 the state of the switch 1180 to change. That means the battery 20 can also be charged when the switch 1180 is not in the conductive state. As in 17 shown is the switch 1180 the body diode 1210 which in some constructions is integral with a MOSFET and other transistors. In other constructions, the diode can 1210 electrically parallel to the switch 1180 be connected.

In some constructions, when the battery 20 not with the loader 30 can communicate, the battery charger 30 a small average current through a sense wire or sense terminal, for example the sense wire 1120a or the associated activation port 1120b , invest. The current can be a capacitor 1150 load, in turn, enough voltage to the microprocessor 1140 can supply to allow the operation.

The Constructions or embodiments, which have been described above and shown in the figures are reproduced by way of example only and they are not as a limitation of Thought concepts and principles of the present invention. It is therefore for Professionals apparently that different changes in the elements and of their construction and their arrangements are possible without the mind and scope of the present invention deviated.

Summary:

A Combination contains a battery pack and a battery charger that is operable to supply a charging current to the battery. The battery pack contains one first battery connection, a second battery connection and a Battery cell that has a current Charge state has. The battery cell is connected to the first battery connection and / or the second battery terminal coupled. The battery battery contains too a battery microcontroller connected to the first battery connector and / or the second battery terminal is coupled. The microcontroller is operable, the current one To measure the state of charge of the battery cell to measurements of the current state of charge to generate the battery cell. The battery charger contains one first charger connection, which is constructed with the first battery connection and / or the second battery terminal to be coupled, and a second charger port, which is constructed with the first battery port and / or to be coupled to the second battery terminal. The first Charger port is constructed such that it charges the battery battery charging current supplies. The battery charger contains also a loader microcontroller connected to the second charger port coupled, and which is operable to receive the measurements of the present Charge state of the battery cell received by the battery microcontroller can. The loader microcontroller is also operable such that it supplies the charging current to the battery battery in pulses, wherein each pulse is a first Time interval in which charging current is supplied to the battery, and a second time interval, in the charging current to the Battery is interrupted. The microcontroller is still such operable to be the first time interval of a pulse at least partly based on measurements of the current state of charge of the battery cell, which are received by the battery microcontroller can.

Claims (20)

Combination comprising: a battery, which contains: one first battery connection, a second battery connection, a Battery cell that has a current Charge state, the battery cell with the first battery connection and / or the second battery terminal is coupled; one Battery microcontroller connected to the first battery connector and / or coupled to the second battery terminal, wherein the microcontroller is operable to the present state of charge of the Battery cell measures to take measurements of the present state of charge to generate the battery cell; and a battery charger that is operable so that it is a charging current to the battery supplies, the battery charger contains: one first charger connection, which is constructed with the first battery connection and / or to be coupled to the second battery terminal, wherein the first charger port is configured to supply charging current to the battery battery; one second charger port, which is constructed with the first battery port and / or to be coupled to the second battery terminal, and one Loader microcontroller coupled to the second charger port is and is operable, the measurements of the current state of charge of the battery receive from the battery microcontroller, wherein the loader microcontroller is also operable, the charging current to the battery in pulses or To deliver impulses, wherein each pulse contains a first time interval in the charging current of the battery supplied , and contains a second time interval in which the supply of the Charging current to the battery is interrupted, the microcontroller is still operable, the first time interval of a pulse at least partly based on measurements of the current state of the battery to be received from the battery microcontroller become. Combination as set forth in claim 1 and wherein the battery cell has a chemistry, wherein the chemistry is a Chemistry based on Li-ion is. A combination as set forth in claim 1 and wherein the loader microcontroller is still operable, the second time interval a pulse based at least in part on the measurements of the current Battery state of charge of the battery microcontroller be received from, modify. A combination as set forth in claim 1 and wherein the battery pack further includes a plurality of battery cells each having a current state of charge and a battery state of charge, the state of charge being the sum of each current state of charge of the plurality of battery cells, the battery microcontroller also being operable to measure the battery charge state to make a measurement of To produce battery charge state. A combination as set forth in claim 4 and wherein the loader microcontroller is operable to control the battery charge state measures to produce a second measure of the battery charge level. A combination as set forth in claim 5 and wherein the second measurement of the battery charge state as determined by the loader microcontroller is measured, greater than the measurement of the battery charge state is as determined by the battery microcontroller is measured. A combination as set forth in claim 5 and wherein the battery microcontroller measures the current state of charge for every Battery cell of the plurality of battery cells as a percentage of the battery charge state as it passes through the battery microcontroller is measured. A combination as set forth in claim 7 and wherein the loader microcontroller is operable to match the current state of charge a battery cell during the first time interval of the first pulse determined to a determined Measuring the state of charge of a battery cell based on the percentage and the second measurement of the battery charge state as determined by the loader microcontroller is measured, the loader microcontroller also is operable so that it is the first time interval of a subsequent Pulses on the basis of the determined measurement of the state of charge of a Battery cell modified. A combination as set forth in claim 1 and wherein the battery charger is still operable, the second time interval to modify a pulse. Battery charger, which is operable, a charging current to supply a battery, the one battery cell with a current state of charge and a Battery microcontroller that is operable has the current state of charge the battery cell, the battery charger having: a Loader microcontroller that is operable, the current state of charge receive the battery cell from the battery microcontroller, wherein the loader microcontroller is also operable, the charging current to supply the battery in pulses, wherein each pulse is a first time interval and a second time interval contains wherein the first time interval is an interval in which a charging current supplied to the battery and wherein the second time interval is an interval in which the feeder the charging current to the battery is interrupted, the microcontroller is still operable, the first time interval of a pulse at least partly based on the current state of charge of the battery cell, which is received from the battery microcontroller. Battery charger as set forth in claim 10 and wherein the battery pack has a plurality of battery cells, the each one current Have state of charge, the battery microcontroller operable is, every present State of charge of the many To measure battery cells, and wherein the loader microcontroller operable is to receive each state of charge of a battery cell. Battery charger as set forth in claim 11 and wherein the battery battery has a battery voltage, wherein the battery voltage a sum of every current one Charge state of the plurality of battery cells, wherein the loader microcontroller is also operable to receive the battery state of charge. Battery charger as set forth in claim 10 and wherein the battery charger is still operable, the second time interval to modify a pulse. Method of pulse or pulse charging a battery with a plurality of battery cells, the method comprising: measure up a state of charge for each battery cell in the plurality of battery cells; Invest a first pulse with charging current to the battery, wherein the first Pulse a first time interval in which the charging current of the battery supplied , and has a second time interval in which the feeding of the Charging current to the battery is interrupted; and Creating a second pulse with charging current to the battery, the second pulse a third time interval in which the charging current is supplied to the battery, and a fourth time interval in which the supply of the Charging current to the battery is interrupted, the third time interval based at least partially on the state of charge of the battery cell and wherein the third time interval is less than the first time interval is. The method of pulse charging as set forth in claim 14, further comprising: identifying a high state of charge of the battery cell from the states of charge of the plurality of batteries cells. Method of pulse charging as set forth in claim 15, which further comprises: Measuring a battery state of charge; and Determining a state of charge of the battery cell, as the battery cell with the high state of charge is identified, to generate a determined state of charge for the battery cell. Method of pulse charging as set forth in claim 16 and wherein the third time interval is at least partially determined State of charge of the battery cell is based. Method of pulse charging as set forth in claim 16, which further comprises: Set up a state of charge threshold the battery cell; and Calculating a determined time when the determined state of charge of the battery cell, the state of charge threshold value reaches the battery cell. Method of pulse charging as set forth in claim 18 and wherein the third time interval is approximately equal to the determined time is. Method of pulse charging, as explained in claim 14 and which further comprises: Maintaining a parameter value, representing the third time interval; and Modify the Parameter value at least partially based on the state of charge the battery cell.